Lost Your Only Car Key? Before You Book a Tow

Lost your only car key? Call Rick’s to discuss a compatible tow. We do not cut or program replacement keys.

If the key is visible in the car, authorized vehicle lockout service may be the right request. If you lost the only key elsewhere, opening a door will not create a working key or make the car ready to drive. Tell us which situation applies before booking.

If you still have the fob but the car will not recognize it, use our separate key-fob-not-detected guide. That problem requires different questions from an entirely missing key.

Contact your vehicle’s dealer or a qualified automotive locksmith that handles your specific year and model. Ask whether they can attend the parked car or need the vehicle brought to them. Rick’s handles suitable transport; key cutting and programming are separate services that we do not provide.

Ford’s owner-manual guidance on replacement keys identifies an authorized dealer as a source for replacement keys and remote controls and directs passive anti-theft reprogramming to the dealer. Requirements differ by vehicle, so confirm the process with the provider who will actually perform your key service.

Before arranging a tow, get answers to these questions:

• Can this location handle an all-keys-lost request for my exact vehicle?
• Must the car be present, or is mobile service available?
• What identification and ownership or authorization documents are required?
• Does the replacement key need to be ordered first?
• When can the vehicle be received, and where should the tow operator leave it?

On a Sunday, confirm the service department or key specialist’s availability directly. An open sales showroom does not establish that key programming or vehicle receiving is available.

When calling Rick’s, say clearly that no working key is available. Provide the year, make, model and drivetrain. Mention a locked steering wheel, electronic parking brake, wheels turned sharply, or a vehicle stuck in Park. Report what you already know; do not force the controls to test them.

Rick’s provides compatible light-duty wheel-lift towing with dollies when appropriate. Missing keys can change the loading plan. Vehicle design, manufacturer transport instructions and working space determine whether our equipment is suitable. We do not provide flatbed towing or guarantee that every locked vehicle can be loaded.